A move for West Brom defender, Jonny Evans is closing in and now that Manchester City have shifted their attention to Aymeric Laporte, Arsenal are the likely suitors to land his signature. The Gunners are already in a faceoff with Borussia Dortmund for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and can make it a highly successful January transfer window by sweeping up Evans for £20m. We could only witness the best out Jonny Evans when Alex Ferguson was at the helm at Manchester United. The retired Scotsman fielded Evans in the centre back role ahead of a lot of talented options and have won three league titles with him in the backline.
The former Manchester United player has quite deservedly drawn high praise from fans and pundits for his impressive stint with the Baggies over the past two and a half seasons. The Northern Ireland international has been the best defensive element in the West Brom lineup despite the side falling to the relegation spot in the current campaign. Albion registered their first win after 21 league fixtures against Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend and might not be keen on losing one of their best defenders in the middle of the season.
West Brom have already lined up a move for Egyptian defender Ali Gabr to replace Evans and the transfer fee will allow Alan Pardew to make the necessary adjustments up front. With just 14 games left in the season to save themselves from downgrading to the EFL Championship, Pardew needs the Evans transfer fee to reinvest in a proven goalscorer or an attacking playmaker.
Arsenal’s defence has been one of their worst enemies this season with Wenger struggling to adapt to the back three formation. The injuries to Laurent Koscielny and Nacho Monreal have forced out the structure, the side had in the past.
Shkodran Mustafi is the best option in the backline but has lacked the cutting edge to really lead the side defensively. Calum Chambers and Rob Holding have been provided with an opportunity to prove themselves over the season but has looked vulnerable at times. The young duo is a huge part of the club’s future, but without consistency will have a tough time breaking into the starting XI.
Per Mertesacker’s retirement after this season will leave a gap in the club ranks in terms of leadership and experience and maybe Evans is being considered to be his replacement. But does Wenger really need another centre-back in the side or should he disburse all his energy towards the Aubameyang transfer?
